Meditation Schedule

The meditation schedule at the Zendo includes Sunday morning meditation 9-11 am from April to December with Wednesday evening meditation 7-8 pm in June, July, and August.

Beginners without prior meditation experience are always welcome. Information and instruction is available and Introductory Days are offered from time to time. Please refer to the Retreats page.

Newcomers should plan to arrive early in order to make seating arrangements. If sitting on a traditional cushion or bench is difficult, chairs are available. Wear loose, comfortable clothing and bring your own bench or cushion if you like. Please e-mail beforehand if you have questions.

There is no fee for attendance at the regular weekly meditation periods. Donations, however, are always appreciated.

Sunday morning meditation is held at the Zendo 9-11 am. We sit for 25 minutes, take a 5-minute break, and sit again for 25 minutes. This is followed by a 20-minute walking period in the Zendo. Then we sit again, ending with a reading and Buddhist chanting. You are welcome to enter or leave at any of the breaks. Tea is served in the Meeting Hall after the meditation session except during the winter months.

Wednesday evening meditation June - August is from 7 pm to 8 pm. We have two 25-minute sitting periods with a 5-minute break in between.

Retreats are planned throughout the year and you will find information on the Retreats page.

Buddha's Birthday is celebrated on the first Sunday in May, beginning with an hour of silent meditation in the Zendo 10-11 am, and a simultaneous gathering for children in the Meeting Hall. At 11 am we all gather in the Meeting Hall for a ceremony and celebration. This festival is a time for children to feel especially welcome at the Zendo.

Rohatsu, the celebration of Buddha's enlightenment, begins on December 1, Meditation periods will continue through the week 6-8 am and 7-9 pm daily, ending on the morning of December 8, 6-8 am. Each two-hour meditation period consists of two 25-minute periods of meditation, extended walking meditation, and another 25-minute period of meditation. On Sunday, there will be meditation 6-8 am, 9-11 am, 1-3 pm, and 7-9 pm. Anyone is welcome to join us anytime.

New Year's Day is an annual Zendo event that gathers families, members and friends for meditation 10-11 am, followed by a short ceremony. There is a potluck brunch, with omelettes, fruit, and beverages provided; bring some food to share. Please join us in celebrating the New Year. Children are particularly welcome.

The Zendo will be closed from the end of Rohatsu on December 8 until the New Year's Day celebration on January 1. Sunday meditation resumes the first Sunday in April.